Altitude Chophouse & Brewing
Written By: Sarah Reish
To say we enjoy a good craft beer would be an understatement. We were excited to head over to Altitude Chophouse & Brewery in Laramie and see what exciting things were happening inside their brewery - We were not disappointed. Special thanks to Juli at Cody Libations for sponsoring this story. Be sure to head over and explore her extensive selection of Wyoming products! We met with Sean, head brewer, and JoviAnn, assistant brewer, and headed out to chat and tour the facility.
The Brewery
The brewing space is small, but that does not stop the creativity that flows from the taps. This duo pushes out 5 beers in ten days and can double transfer in 4 hours. They have plumbed the brewery to pump or drain the tanks to the basement directly into their tanks in the walk in cooler. The vintage tanks are tapped directly above in the bar above allowing guests instant access to new beers. This also means their beer stays incredibly fresh. In the grain room, located downstairs, we were able to learn more about the grains and hops used in making their beer. They pulled some grains for us to taste and explained how this step in tasting the grains helps them build the flavor profile when creating new beers.
A Creative Craft
We asked them to share more about their creative beers and here is what we learned. First they have their main 6 beers on the board, but they can let the creativity run wild with roughly 8-12 additional beers. They test on their pilot system and when they are pleased with a recipe they move on to the main tanks. They offer beer of the month highlighting creative beers inspired by pies, donuts, and cocktails. E. G. They have recently had donut beers, a maple long John that was an amber and a glazed donut that was a blonde. September featured apple pie and Manhattan inspired beers. Beer ideas and coming up with names keeps things fun and creative. We loved the energy and passion they have for creating unique and fun beer.
The Awards
With turning out so many beers, including their creative beers, these guys are no stranger to winning awards. You will find awards throughout the chophouse and bar, they can even be found downstairs in their office area. Be sure to look for them at upcoming beer festivals!
The Altitude Chophouse
Of course we grabbed a bite to eat while there. I enjoyed a pork tenderloin and Sauerkraut apple salad with the Wildcatter Ale Kolsch, which is amazing! Steve enjoyed the fish and chips with the High Plains Pale Ale which Steve said he recommends. Throughout the chophouse is stunning art, all of which is for sale. In the private room in the back of the restaurant, Altitude hosts Craig Bohl, UW Coach for his Coach Bohl Radio Show.
Hit the road!
Altitude Chophouse & Brewery is all about creativity, good beer, and community. It is evident in their beer and their staff. We thoroughly enjoyed this visit and encourage you all to check it out and let us know which beer you love! Post on social media and tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
